#25 - Vital Health Metrics: Your Guide to Essential Lab Tests

The Balanced Bodies Blueprint

Welcome to a pivotal episode of the Balanced Bodies Blueprint! Today, we're unraveling the significance of key lab tests critical for maintaining optimal health throughout your life's journey. I'll be your host, steering the discussion, while Dr. Eryn sheds light on the importance of these fundamental tests.

1. CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel)

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a comprehensive blood test that provides valuable insights into your body's metabolic functions. It includes markers such as Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine (Cr), which are essential for assessing kidney function. Elevated BUN and Cr levels may indicate kidney damage or dehydration, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring to ensure kidney health.

2. LFTs (Liver Function Tests)

Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a series of blood tests designed to evaluate the health and functionality of the liver. This panel typically includes markers such as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Total Bilirubin, Albumin, Total Protein, and Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR). Abnormal LFT results can indicate liver damage, inflammation, or other underlying conditions, making regular monitoring essential for maintaining liver health.

3. CBC (Complete Blood Count)

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a comprehensive blood test that evaluates various components of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Specific markers within the CBC, such as Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), and Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW), can help diagnose conditions such as iron-deficiency anemia. Monitoring these markers allows for early detection and management of blood-related disorders.

4. Thyroid Function (TSH and T4)

Thyroid Function tests measure levels of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Thyroxine (T4), essential for assessing thyroid health. Abnormal TSH and T4 levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Regular thyroid function testing is crucial for diagnosing thyroid disorders early and guiding appropriate treatment interventions.

5. Lipid Panel

A Lipid Panel is a blood test that measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream. Elevated lipid levels, including Total Cholesterol (TC), Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides, contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Monitoring lipid levels allows for the early identification of cardiovascular health risks and enables interventions such as lifestyle changes and medication to manage lipid abnormalities effectively.

6. HbA1C (Glycated Hemoglobin)

HbA1C, also known as Glycated Hemoglobin, is a blood test that provides valuable insights into long-term blood sugar control. Unlike traditional fasting glucose tests, HbA1C reflects average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, offering a more comprehensive assessment of diabetes management. Elevated HbA1C levels indicate poor blood sugar control and may necessitate adjustments to diabetes treatment plans to prevent complications.

Tune in as we navigate the significance of these essential lab tests and empower you to take charge of your health with informed decisions and proactive monitoring strategies!

Coach Vinny

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Dr. Eryn

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Facebook: Eryn Stansfield

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